52% Of Patients Who Had A Second Opinion Had Changes

I don’t know about you, but this seems a little surprising to me. We know that it’s hard to figure everything out in the 8-15 minutes we have with the physician so perhaps a deep focus on key claims and key procedures is a necessary process. But, I think many of us worry that our physician will think we don’t trust them.

“Someone who has your best interest in mind will welcome that conversation.” Is what Dr. Jeffrey Cain, president-elect of the American Academy of Family Physicians says about telling your physician that you’re getting a second opinion

So, according to an article in Money Magazine, here’s what you do:

Check your coverage. You may be covered if you get a second opinion. If not, you might be able to appeal that decision.

Find the right doctor. The article suggests getting multiple names and finding MDs that work at different hospitals (to avoid group think).

Get your documents together. Make sure the physician has all the documentation before you go or bring it with you.